Multiple Choice
South America is known for its tremendous biodiversity. What is biodiversity?
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1. Introduction to Biology
Introduction to Biology
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In an ocean wave, what is the primary direction of movement of individual water molecules?
A
They move forward in the same direction as the wave travels.
B
They remain completely stationary as the wave passes.
C
They move straight downward toward the ocean floor.
D
They move in circular orbits, returning to nearly the same position after each wave passes.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the nature of ocean waves: Ocean waves are energy traveling through water, causing water molecules to move in a specific pattern rather than directly forward or downward.
Recognize the movement of water molecules: Water molecules in ocean waves move in circular or elliptical orbits, which is a combination of forward and upward motion followed by backward and downward motion.
Clarify the concept of circular orbits: As the wave passes, the water molecules return to nearly the same position they started in, rather than traveling with the wave or remaining stationary.
Visualize the motion: Imagine a cork floating on the surface of the water. As a wave passes, the cork moves in a circular path, rising and falling with the wave but not traveling far horizontally.
Relate this to wave energy: The circular motion of water molecules demonstrates how energy is transferred through the water without causing the bulk movement of the water itself.
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